What is Kind Hearts Bloom?

Kind Hearts Bloom is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering kindness and community connection by growing and sharing flowers, vegetables, and native plants. We promote mental wellness and environmental sustainability through programs like floral donations, yard sharing, and community gardening.

We call the Westside of Grand Rapids, Michigan home.

Are you a 501(c)(3) organization?

Yes, Kind Hearts Bloom is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

What is Community Roots?

Community Roots helps neighbors transform front and side yards into native plant or vegetable gardens that support pollinators, grow food, and foster community connection and wellbeing.

Who can participate?

Any Grand Rapids resident with a residential front or side yard is welcome. Priority is given to high-traffic areas and underserved neighborhoods.

What types of gardens can I choose?

Participants can choose a Native Plant & Pollinator Garden, a Raised-Bed Vegetable Garden, or a Combination Garden with both.

Do I have to maintain the garden myself?

Yes. Participants are expected to care for their gardens after installation, including watering, weeding, and seasonal upkeep. Our team provides training, resources, and support, but we cannot maintain the gardens for you.

What is the two-year training and education program?

Participants receive pre-installation workshops, winter learning resources, and hands-on training during installation. They also have access to ongoing workshops, seasonal check-ins, and volunteer days.

Are there costs involved?

Most materials and plants are provided by Community Roots, but participants may be asked to contribute a small amount financially. Additionally, Community Roots will be fundraising to support the program, and participants may be asked to help fundraise.

Can I host neighbors or volunteers in my garden?

Yes! Chosen households will serve as hosts for workshops and volunteer days to encourage community engagement.

How do I apply?

Applications open September 1 and close October 6, 2025. You can apply through our website by filling out the Community Roots questionnaire.

What is the Yard Share Program?

Neighborhood Blooms is a yard-sharing initiative where homeowners donate unused yard space for volunteers to grow specialty flowers. These flowers are used to generate revenue for our nonprofit through CSA subscriptions and are also donated to local organizations to spread joy.

How can I participate in the Yard Share Program?

You can get involved by donating your yard, volunteering to help maintain gardens, or supporting the program through donations. Yard owners receive a beautifully designed garden and the joy of contributing to community betterment.

We are currently at capacity for the 2025 growing season. We invite you to join the waitlist for 2026 on the Neighborhood Blooms page.

Do you use native plants in your designs?

Yes! Each yard share has a dedicated space for native plants that will can remain with the donor’s yard even after their yard share time has ended. We provide these native plants to increase native habitats and provide a balanced ecosystem in our neighborhoods.

What are the benefits of donating my yard space?

By donating your yard, you:

• Contribute to a meaningful community project.

• Help create green, productive spaces that increase biodiversity and native habitats.

• Enjoy a beautifully maintained garden.

• Strengthen connections in your neighborhood.

What is the process to sign up to share my yard?

First, fill out the application on the Neighborhood Blooms page (click “Apply to Share My Yard”). By answering these questions, we can see if your yard will be a good fit for the program.

Next, we will set up a site assessment to come look at your yard and talk specifics (sunlight, water availability, do you want to help maintain the garden alongside volunteers, when is the yard accessible, chat about designs, etc).

Lastly, we sign agreements and waivers, then pick a date to get started!

How long is the yard share commitment?

Yard hosts commit to one growing season (March-November), with the option of renewal at the end of the term.

Can my business donate event flowers?

Yes! We welcome donations from florists, event planners, and hosts. Contact us to coordinate pickup or delivery of flowers after your event.

How does the “Grow & Give” Project work?

Grow & Give empowers neighbors of all ages to grow their own flowers and food through workshops, resources, and community support. Neighbors can then share their harvest through free flower and produce stands, promoting food security and community connection.

We are now accepting workshop hosts for the 2025 year.

How do I volunteer?

We’re always looking for helping hands! Volunteers can assist with gardening, bouquet arranging, delivery, or educational workshops. Visit our Point Volunteer page to see all our volunteer opportunities!

How is Kind Hearts Bloom funded?

We rely on donations, grants, and revenue from programs like CSA subscriptions. Every dollar goes toward supporting our mission to build community and spread kindness.

How do I make a donation?

You can donate through our website or contact us directly to discuss other ways to support our work.

What if I don’t have yard space but still want to help?

There are plenty of ways to support us! You can volunteer, donate, or share your skills and connections on the Board of Directors.

Who benefits from your programs?

Our programs support local community members, including seniors, healthcare patients, nonprofit organizations, and families in need of connection and kindness.

Feel free to reach out with additional questions or to learn how to get involved!